U.S. patent application number 14/131507 was filed with the patent office on 2014-06-05 for swivel elbow and connector assembly for patient interface systems.
This patent application is currently assigned to RESMED LIMITED. The applicant listed for this patent is Francis Barlow, Robert Burnam, Chris Cullen, Teck Fong, Stephen Gray, Tumul Gupta, Julian Mazzone, David Anthony Pidcock, Jose Ignacio Romagnoli, Skipper Christopher Scott. Invention is credited to Francis Barlow, Robert Burnam, Chris Cullen, Teck Fong, Stephen Gray, Tumul Gupta, Julian Mazzone, David Anthony Pidcock, Jose Ignacio Romagnoli, Skipper Christopher Scott.
Application Number | 20140150798 14/131507 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47505411 |
Filed Date | 2014-06-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140150798 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fong; Teck ; et al. |
June 5, 2014 |
SWIVEL ELBOW AND CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY FOR PATIENT INTERFACE
SYSTEMS
Abstract
A swivel elbow and connector assembly for a patient interface
system includes a ring configured to be sealingly secured in an
aperture of the patient interface system. The ring includes a first
side in an interior of the patient interface system and a second
side at an exterior of the patient interface system when the ring
is secured in the aperture. The ring also includes a plurality of
vents configured to permit flow of gases from the interior to the
exterior of the patient interface system. The swivel elbow and
connector assembly includes an elbow swivelably secured in the
ring. A patient interface system for delivering a flow of
breathable gas to a user includes a patient interface structure
configured to sealing engage the face of the user. The patient
interface structure includes an aperture. A swivel elbow and
connector assembly is sealingly secured in the aperture.
Inventors: |
Fong; Teck; (Sydney, AU)
; Gray; Stephen; (Sydney, AU) ; Barlow;
Francis; (Sydney, AU) ; Burnam; Robert;
(Sydney, AU) ; Scott; Skipper Christopher;
(Sydney, AU) ; Pidcock; David Anthony; (Sydney,
AU) ; Gupta; Tumul; (Sydney, AU) ; Mazzone;
Julian; (Sydney, AU) ; Romagnoli; Jose Ignacio;
(Sydney, AU) ; Cullen; Chris; (Sydney,
AU) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Fong; Teck
Gray; Stephen
Barlow; Francis
Burnam; Robert
Scott; Skipper Christopher
Pidcock; David Anthony
Gupta; Tumul
Mazzone; Julian
Romagnoli; Jose Ignacio
Cullen; Chris |
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney
Sydney |
|
AU
AU
AU
AU
AU
AU
AU
AU
AU
AU |
|
|
Assignee: |
RESMED LIMITED
Bella, Vista, New south Wales
AU
|
Family ID: |
47505411 |
Appl. No.: |
14/131507 |
Filed: |
July 6, 2012 |
PCT Filed: |
July 6, 2012 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU2012/000819 |
371 Date: |
January 8, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61505711 |
Jul 8, 2011 |
|
|
|
61521139 |
Aug 8, 2011 |
|
|
|
61648807 |
May 18, 2012 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
128/206.21 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61M 2207/00 20130101;
A61M 16/0622 20140204; A61M 16/0605 20140204; A61M 16/0825
20140204; A61M 2202/0225 20130101; A61M 16/208 20130101; A61M
16/0616 20140204; A61M 16/0666 20130101; A61M 16/0816 20130101;
A61M 2202/0225 20130101; A61M 2202/0085 20130101; A61M 2205/42
20130101; A61M 16/0683 20130101; A61M 2210/0618 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
128/206.21 |
International
Class: |
A61M 16/08 20060101
A61M016/08 |
Claims
1. An air delivery tube having an end portion that is removably
connectable to a mask, the end portion includes a first arcuate
region adapted to engage the mask and constructed from a first
material, and a second arcuate region adapted to engage the mask
and constructed from a second material, the first arcuate region
and the second arcuate region being combined and arranged to define
a circular shape and at least a portion of a cylinder.
2. The air delivery tube of claim 1, wherein the first material is
relatively more rigid than the second material.
3. The air delivery tube of claim 1, wherein the first material is
resilient and/or stiff.
4. The air delivery tube of claim 1, wherein the second material is
flexible.
5. The air delivery tube of claim 1, wherein the first material
forms a vent.
6. The air delivery tube of claim 1, wherein the second material
forms a valve.
7. The air delivery tube of claim 1, wherein the first arcuate
region includes a stop.
8. The air delivery tube of claim 1, wherein the first arcuate
region and the second arcuate region are formed in one piece and/or
over-molded.
9. The air delivery tube of claim 1, further comprising
actuators.
10. The air delivery tube of claim 9, wherein the actuators are
adapted to deform the first arcuate region.
11-38. (canceled)
39. A swivel elbow and connector assembly for a patient interface
system, comprising: a ring configured to be sealingly secured in an
aperture of the patient interface system, the ring including a
first side in an interior of the patient interface system and a
second side at an exterior of the patient interface system when the
ring is secured in the aperture, the ring comprising a plurality of
vents configured to permit flow of gases from the interior to the
exterior of the patient interface system; and an elbow swivelably
secured in the ring, wherein the ring comprises a first flange on
the first side and a second flange on the second side, the first
and second flanges defining a channel that sealingly engages the
aperture of the patient interface system and the second flange
comprises an angled surface that directs the flow of gases from the
plurality of vents at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the
ring.
40. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 39,
further comprising a first swivel cuff having a first end rotatably
connected to the elbow at a first end and having a second end
configured to be connected to a conduit for delivering a flow of
breathable gas to the patient interface system or to be connected
to a second swivel cuff.
41. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 40,
wherein the first swivel cuff is rotatably connected to the elbow
which is configured to provide an angle between the longitudinal
axis of the first swivel cuff and the longitudinal axis of the
elbow varies as the first swivel cuff rotates relative to the
elbow.
42. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 41,
wherein the angle varies from about 40.degree.-60.degree..
43. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 42,
wherein the angle varies about 50.degree..
44. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 40
wherein the second swivel cuff is rotatably connected to the first
swivel cuff which is configured to provide an angle between the
longitudinal axis of the second swivel cuff and the longitudinal
axis of the first swivel varies as the second swivel cuff rotates
relative to the first swivel elbow.
45. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 39,
wherein the angle varies from about 40.degree.-60.degree..
46. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 45,
wherein the angle varies about 50.degree..
47. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 39,
wherein the plurality of vents are provided on an inner surface of
the ring.
48. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 47,
further comprising a sleeve between the ring and the elbow.
49. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 48,
wherein the elbow comprises a tapered flange that secures the
sleeve between the ring and the elbow.
50. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 47,
wherein the sleeve comprises a flange between the second flange of
the ring and a flange of the elbow.
51. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 39,
wherein the plurality of vents are provided on an outer surface of
the ring.
52. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 51,
wherein an inner surface of the ring is partially spherical and an
outer surface of the elbow is partially spherical and the elbow and
the ring form a ball and socket connection.
53. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 52,
wherein an annular surface of the elbow is flush with an annular
surface of the ring when the longitudinal axes of the elbow and the
ring are co-linear.
54. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 53,
wherein the elbow comprises an annular junction configured to limit
swiveling of the elbow by engaging a second annular surface of the
ring.
55. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 52,
wherein the partially spherical surfaces of the ring and elbow have
approximately equal radii of curvature.
56-90. (canceled)
91. A swivel elbow and connector assembly for a patient interface
system, comprising: a ring configured to be sealingly secured in an
aperture of the patient interface system, the ring including a
first side in an interior of the patient interface system and a
second side at an exterior of the patient interface system when the
ring is secured in the aperture, and a space is defined between the
first and second sides that forms part of a spherical socket; an
elbow swivelably secured in the ring, and wherein the ring
comprises a first flange on the first side and a second flange on
the second side, the first and second flanges defining a channel
that sealingly engages the aperture of the patient interface
system; and wherein an inner surface of the ring is partially
spherical and an outer surface of the elbow is partially spherical
and the elbow and the ring form a ball and socket connection.
92. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 91,
further comprising a swivel cuff annular engaging ring that is
received in an annular groove of the elbow, the swivel cuff annular
engaging ring configured to be connected to a conduit for
delivering a flow of breathable gas to the patient interface
system.
93. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 92,
wherein the swivel cuff annular engaging ring is rotatably
connected to the elbow.
94. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 91,
wherein an annular surface of the elbow is flush with an annular
surface of the ring when the longitudinal axes of the elbow and the
ring are co-linear.
95. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 94,
wherein the elbow comprises an annular junction configured to limit
swiveling of the elbow by engaging a second annular surface of the
ring.
96. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 91,
wherein the partially spherical surfaces of the ring and elbow have
approximately equal radii of curvature.
97. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 91,
further comprising a plurality of vents configured to permit flow
of gases from the interior to the exterior of the patient interface
system.
98. A swivel elbow and connector assembly according to claim 96,
wherein the plurality of vents are positioned on the elbow.
99. A patient interface system, comprising: a patient interface, an
elbow having a first end and a second end, a ball and socket joint
between the first end of the elbow and the patient interface, a
swivel cuff rotatably secured to the second end of the elbow, and a
conduit for delivering a supply of breathable gas to the patient
interface secured to the swivel cuff.
100. A swivel elbow for a patient interface system, comprising: an
elbow having a first end and a second end, a connector configured
to sealably secure the elbow to an aperture in a patient interface
system, a ball and socket joint between the elbow and the
connector, and a swivel cuff rotatably connected to the second end
of the elbow, wherein the swivel cuff is configured to secure to
the elbow a conduit for delivering a supply of breathable gas to
the patient interface.
101. The swivel elbow according to claim 100, wherein the elbow and
the connector are pneumatically engaged such that exhaled air of a
patient does not vent between the elbow and the connector.
102. The swivel elbow according to claim 100, wherein the ball and
socket joint does not have protuberances on its surface.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Application No.
61/505,711, filed Jul. 8, 2011, U.S. Application No. 61/521,139,
filed Aug. 8, 2011, and U.S. Application No. 61/648,807 filed May
18, 2012, each incorporated herein by reference in their
entirety.
[0002] Further the entire contents of International Application
PCT/AU2010/000684, filed Jun. 2, 2010, and published as WO
2010/139014 A1, are incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY
[0003] The technology relates to an elbow for a patient interface
system, for example a nasal respiratory mask, for an air delivery
system for treatment of, for example, Sleep Disordered Breathing
(SDB) with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) or
Non-Invasive Positive Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV).
BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNOLOGY
[0004] Apparatus to deliver breathable gas to a patient typically
includes a positive airway pressure (PAP) device, an air delivery
conduit or tube, and a patient interface. The patient interface
contacts the patient's face in use to deliver pressurized
breathable gas to the patient from the PAP device.
SUMMARY OF THE TECHNOLOGY
[0005] An aspect of the present technology relates to an elbow and
a connector assembly adapted to receive gases from a flow generator
and deliver the gases to a patient interface.
[0006] An aspect of the present technology relates to an elbow and
a connector adapted to vent gases from a patient interface.
[0007] As aspect of the present technology is to have multiple
functions in one part or component and/or manufactured together,
e.g., quick release button(s)/member(s)/actuator(s), baffle and
swivel all formed together, so patient is not required to
disassemble; this may increase potential for reduced overall part
costs.
[0008] An aspect of the present technology relates to a multi-axis
elbow assembly that allows movement of a connected tube in two
separate planes while substantially isolating drag forces from the
tube.
[0009] Another aspect of the present technology relates to a method
for manufacturing an elbow for a patient interface assembly,
comprising providing a skeleton, e.g., of rigid or semi-rigid
material and adapted to communicate air flow under pressure between
an air delivery conduit and a mask; separately molding an
anti-asphyxia valve (AAV) with a pull tab; and assembling the
skeleton and the AAV by pulling the pull tab from inside the
skeleton and through an opening in the skeleton to position, retain
and/or seal the AAV relative to the skeleton. The method may
include removing at least a portion of the pull tab once pulled
through such that an outer flange of the AAV sits flush with an
exterior elbow surface. The method may further comprise providing a
flexible component to secure the AAV in position. The flexible
component may form one or more release buttons or actuators on the
elbow.
[0010] Another aspect of the present technology relates to an elbow
for a patient interface assembly, comprising a skeleton or frame,
e.g., of rigid or semi-rigid material, and adapted to communicate
air flow under pressure between an air delivery conduit and a mask;
an anti-asphyxia valve (AAV) with a pull tab, whereby to assembly
the AAV to the skeleton, the pull tab is inserted or guided inside
the skeleton and pulled through an opening in the skeleton to
position, retain and/or seal the AAV relative to the skeleton. At
least a portion of an outer flange of the AAV, once the pull tab is
pulled through, sits flush with an exterior elbow surface. The
elbow may include a flexible component to secure the AAV in
position and/or to form one or more release buttons or actuators on
the elbow, the release buttons adapted to remove the elbow from a
frame.
[0011] Another aspect of the technology relates to a swivel elbow
and connector assembly for a patient interface for delivering
pressurized breathable gas to a patient from a PAP device.
According to one aspect, the swivel elbow and connector assembly is
connected to a flexible patient interface structure, e.g. a
cushion, through an aperture in the patient interface structure.
According to another aspect, the swivel elbow and connector
assembly includes a connector, for example a ring, which is
attachable to and detachable from the patient interface structure
at the aperture. The connector includes a plurality of slots for
venting gases from the interior of the patient interface structure
to the exterior of the patient interface structure.
[0012] Yet another aspect of the technology relates to a swivel
elbow connected to the connector and slots to permit venting of
gases between the ring and the swivel elbow. According to another
aspect, the swivel elbow is connected to the connector and the
slots permit venting of gases between the connector and the patient
interface structure, e.g. cushion, and no venting occurs between
the connector and the swivel elbow.
[0013] A further aspect of the technology relates to a swivel elbow
and anti-asphyxia valve assembly having a diffuse vent. A still
further aspect of the technology relates to a swivel elbow and
anti-asphyxia valve assembly having a diffuse vent that may be
molded in one piece. An even further aspect of the technology
relates to a swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia valve assembly having a
diffuse vent that may have engagement portions that, when pressed,
permit engagement and disengagement of the swivel elbow and
anti-asphyxia valve assembly from a patient interface, e.g. a
mask.
[0014] According to an example of the technology, a swivel elbow
and connector assembly for a patient interface system comprises a
ring configured to be sealingly secured in an aperture of the
patient interface system, the ring including a first side in an
interior of the patient interface system and a second side at an
exterior of the patient interface system when the ring is secured
in the aperture, the ring comprising a plurality of vents
configured to permit flow of gases from the interior to the
exterior of the patient interface system; and an elbow swivelably
secured in the ring. The ring comprises a first flange on the first
side and a second flange on the second side, the first and second
flanges defining a channel that sealingly engages the aperture of
the patient interface system and the second flange comprises an
angled surface that directs the flow of gases from the plurality of
vents at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the ring.
[0015] According to another example of the technology, a patient
interface system for delivering a flow of breathable gas to a user
comprises a patient interface structure configured to sealingly
engage the face of the user, the patient interface structure
comprising an aperture; and a swivel elbow and connector assembly
as disclosed herein.
[0016] According to another example of the technology, an elbow for
delivering gases to a patient interface comprises a first
connecting portion, a second connecting portion and a venting
portion. The first connecting portion is adapted to receive a tube
connection, the second connecting portion is adapted to receive a
patient interface assembly, and the venting portion is proximal to
the second connecting portion. The venting portion may be diffused
about the perimeter of the second connecting portion. The elbow may
further comprise a baffle to separate the venting portion from an
incoming air stream from the first connecting portion.
[0017] According to still another example of the technology, a
swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia valve assembly for a patient
interface assembly comprises a first component including a first
connection portion configured to be sealingly secured in an
aperture of the patient interface system, a second connection
portion configured to be connected to a swivel or a delivery
conduit, one or more first supports between the first connection
portion and the second connection portion, and a first aperture and
a second aperture are provided between the one or more first
supports; and a second component including a valve member,
engagement members, and a flexible member, the valve member being
between the one or more first supports of the first component and
movable between a first position in which the valve member occludes
the first aperture and a second position in which the valve member
does not occlude the first aperture, the engagement members being
configured to engage the one or more first supports when pressed by
a user of the patient interface system, and the flexible member
being connected to the engagement members and sealing the second
aperture.
[0018] Other aspects, features, and advantages of the present
technology will become apparent from the following detailed
description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings, which are a part of this disclosure and which illustrate,
by way of example, principles of the technology.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The accompanying drawings facilitate an understanding of the
various examples of this technology. In such drawings:
[0020] FIG. 1 is an isometric cross sectional view of a swivel
elbow and connector assembly according to an example of the
technology;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a cross sectional side view of the swivel elbow
and connector assembly of FIG. 1;
[0022] FIGS. 3 and 4 are exploded isometric views of the swivel
elbow and connector assembly of FIG. 1;
[0023] FIGS. 5 and 6 are isometric views of a double swivel elbow
and connector assembly according to another example of the
technology in a first position or configuration;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a side view of the double swivel elbow and
connector assembly of FIGS. 5 and 6;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a side view of the double swivel elbow and
connector assembly of FIG. 7 in a second position or
configuration;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a side view of the transition of the double swivel
elbow and connector assembly from the first position to the second
position;
[0027] FIG. 10 is an isometric cross sectional view of the double
swivel elbow and connector assembly in the first position;
[0028] FIG. 11 is an isometric cross sectional view of the double
swivel elbow and connector assembly in the second position;
[0029] FIG. 12 is a cross sectional side view of the double swivel
elbow and connector assembly in the first position;
[0030] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional side view of the double swivel
elbow and connector assembly in a third position or
configuration;
[0031] FIG. 14 is a cross sectional side view of the transition of
the double swivel elbow and connector assembly from the first
position to the second position;
[0032] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional side view of the double swivel
elbow and connector assembly in a fourth position or
configuration;
[0033] FIG. 16 is a cross sectional side view of the transition of
the double swivel elbow and connector assembly from the third
position to the fourth position;
[0034] FIGS. 17 and 18 are isometric views of a triple swivel elbow
and connector assembly including a second swivel cuff according to
still another example of the technology in a first position or
configuration;
[0035] FIG. 19 is an isometric view of the triple swivel elbow and
connector assembly of FIGS. 17 and 18 in a second position or
configuration;
[0036] FIG. 20 is a side view of the triple swivel elbow and
connector assembly of FIGS. 17 and 18;
[0037] FIG. 21 is a side view of the transition of the triple
swivel elbow and connector assembly from the first position to the
second position;
[0038] FIG. 22 is side view of the triple swivel elbow and
connector assembly in the second position;
[0039] FIG. 23 is a cross sectional side view of the triple swivel
elbow and connector assembly in the first position;
[0040] FIG. 24 is a cross sectional side view of the triple swivel
elbow and connector assembly in the second position;
[0041] FIG. 25 is side view of the transition of the triple swivel
elbow and connector assembly from the first position to the second
position;
[0042] FIG. 26 is a cross sectional isometric view of the triple
swivel elbow and connector assembly in the first position;
[0043] FIG. 27 is a cross sectional isometric view of the triple
swivel elbow and connector assembly in the second position;
[0044] FIG. 28 is a cross sectional side view of the triple swivel
elbow and connector assembly in a third position or
configuration;
[0045] FIG. 29 is a cross sectional side view of the triple swivel
elbow and connector assembly in a fourth position or
configuration;
[0046] FIG. 30 is a cross sectional side view of the transition of
the swivel elbow and connector assembly from the third position to
the fourth position;
[0047] FIG. 31 is a cross sectional view of a patient interface
structure, or cushion, usable with examples of the technology;
[0048] FIG. 32 is an isometric view of a swivel elbow and connector
assembly according to an example of the technology;
[0049] FIG. 33 is a partial side cross sectional view of the swivel
elbow and connector assembly of FIG. 32;
[0050] FIG. 34 is a top cross sectional view of the swivel elbow
and connector assembly of FIG. 32;
[0051] FIG. 35 is an isometric view of a variation of the swivel
elbow and connector assembly of FIG. 32;
[0052] FIG. 36 is a front view of the swivel elbow and connector
assembly of FIG. 35;
[0053] FIG. 37 is a cross sectional view of the swivel elbow and
connector assembly of FIG. 35;
[0054] FIG. 38 is an isometric view of a first component of a
swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia valve assembly according to an
example of the technology;
[0055] FIG. 39 is a side view of the first component of FIG.
38;
[0056] FIG. 40 is a rear view of the first component of FIGS. 38
and 39;
[0057] FIG. 41 is a cross sectional side view of the first
component of FIGS. 38-40;
[0058] FIG. 42 is an isometric view of the first component and a
second component of the swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia valve
assembly;
[0059] FIG. 43 is a side view of the swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia
valve assembly of FIG. 42;
[0060] FIG. 44 is a rear view of the swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia
valve assembly of FIGS. 42 and 43;
[0061] FIG. 45 is a front view the swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia
valve assembly of FIGS. 42-44;
[0062] FIG. 46 is a cross sectional side view of the swivel elbow
and anti-asphyxia valve assembly of FIGS. 42-45;
[0063] FIG. 47 is a top view of the swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia
valve assembly of FIGS. 42-46;
[0064] FIG. 48 is an isometric view of a patient interface
including a swivel elbow and connector assembly according to
another example of the technology;
[0065] FIG. 49 is an isometric view of a patient interface
including a swivel elbow and connector assembly according to
another example of the technology;
[0066] FIG. 50 is an isometric view of the elbow of FIG. 49;
[0067] FIG. 51 is a cross sectional view of the patient interface
of FIG. 49;
[0068] FIG. 52 is a cross sectional view of a patient interface
including a swivel elbow and connector assembly according to
another example of the technology;
[0069] FIG. 53 is an isometric view of an elbow according to an
example of the technology;
[0070] FIG. 54 is a cross sectional view of the elbow of FIG.
53;
[0071] FIG. 55 is a cross sectional view of an elbow and tube
connector assembly according to the technology;
[0072] FIG. 56 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 55;
[0073] FIG. 57 is an exploded assembly view of the elbow and tube
connector assembly of FIG. 55;
[0074] FIG. 58 is an exploded assembly view of an elbow and tube
connector assembly according to another example of the
technology;
[0075] FIG. 59 is an assembly view of the elbow and tube connector
assembly of FIG. 58;
[0076] FIG. 60 is a cross sectional view of the elbow and tube
connector assembly of FIG. 59;
[0077] FIG. 61 is an exploded assembly view of an elbow and tube
connector assembly according to another example of the
technology;
[0078] FIG. 62 is an assembly view of the elbow and tube connector
assembly of FIG. 61;
[0079] FIG. 63 is a cross sectional view of the elbow and tube
connector assembly of FIG. 62;
[0080] FIG. 64 is an isometric view of the connector of the elbow
and tube connector assembly of FIG. 63;
[0081] FIG. 65 is a cross sectional view of the connector of FIG.
64;
[0082] FIG. 66 is a cross sectional view of a tube connector
assembly according to an example of the technology;
[0083] FIG. 67 is an isometric view of the tube connector assembly
of FIG. 66;
[0084] FIGS. 68A-D show a multi-step process for manufacturing an
elbow with anti-asphyxia valve;
[0085] FIG. 69A shows a perspective view of the a variant of the
elbow;
[0086] FIG. 69B shows a cross section of the variant shown in FIG.
69A; and
[0087] FIG. 70 shows the AAV (a variant) in isolation.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATED EXAMPLES
[0088] The following description is provided in relation to several
examples which may share common characteristics and features. It is
to be understood that one or more features of any one example may
be combinable with one or more features of the other examples. In
addition, any single feature or combination of features in any of
the examples may constitute additional examples.
[0089] In this specification, the word "comprising" is to be
understood in its "open" sense, that is, in the sense of
"including", and thus not limited to its "closed" sense, that is
the sense of "consisting only of". A corresponding meaning is to be
attributed to the corresponding words "comprise", "comprised" and
"comprises" where they appear.
[0090] The term "air" will be taken to include breathable gases,
for example air with supplemental oxygen. It is also acknowledged
that the PAP devices or blowers described herein may be designed to
pump fluids other than air.
[0091] The present technology is adapted to provide an arrangement
or assembly between a patient interface and a tube that may be
adapted to decouple tube drag forces, provide a freedom of movement
for the tube to enable a patient to position the tube in a desired
position without disrupting the seal, vent exhausted gases and
provide a compact, unobtrusive design that is aesthetically
acceptable to patients.
[0092] The venting arrangement may diffuse the exhausted air to
prevent air jetting on patients or their bed partners, and to
reduce noise.
[0093] The venting arrangement may cooperate with the elbow or
connector assembly to further diffuse exhaled air, for example the
elbow may be provided with a ridge to deflect air in a diffused
manner.
[0094] The elbow may be provided with one or more swivel connectors
adapted to provide more degrees of movement and aid in decoupling
tube drag forces.
[0095] The elbow may be referred to as an adaptor, connector or may
be described as any element attach an air delivery tube to a
patient interface.
[0096] Swivel Elbow and Connector Assembly--Vented Connector or
Ring
[0097] Referring to FIGS. 1-4, a swivel elbow and connector
assembly 10 according to an example of the technology comprises a
vented elbow connector, or ring, 20 and a swivel elbow 40. A sleeve
30 is provided between the vented elbow ring 20 and the swivel
elbow 40. The sleeve 30 is provided between a first end of the
swivel elbow 40 and the vented elbow ring 20. A swivel cuff 50 is
provided to a second end of the swivel elbow 40 opposite the first
end. The swivel cuff 50 comprises a swivel cuff annular engaging
ring 51 that is received in an annular groove 43 of the swivel
elbow 40 so that the swivel cuff 50 is rotatable, or swivelable,
with respect to the swivel elbow 40.
[0098] The second end portion of the swivel elbow 40 also includes
a tapered flange 44 that is received in an annular groove 52 of the
swivel elbow 50 to secure the swivel elbow 50 to the swivel elbow
40. The swivel elbow 40 also includes an end portion 53 that is
configured to be connected to an air delivery hose or conduit that
is configured to deliver a flow of breathable gas generated by a
flow generator, or blower.
[0099] Referring to FIG. 2, the vented elbow ring 20 comprises an
inner flange 22 and an outer flange 23. A patient interface
structure, e.g. cushion, 5 of a patient interface system may be
fitted into a channel 24 of the vented elbow ring 20 defined by the
flanges 22, 23. The cushion 5 may be a nasal cushion, a full face
cushion, or a nasal pillows or prongs cushion. The patient
interface system may also include, for example, a support
structure, or frame, that supports the cushion 5; a tube, conduit,
or hose configured to deliver a flow of breathable gas to the
cushion; and/or a patient interface positioning and stabilizing
system (e.g. headgear). It should also be appreciated that the
vented elbow ring 20 may be provided in, for example, the support
structure or frame.
[0100] Referring to FIG. 31, a cushion 5 usable with the swivel
elbow and connector assembly 10 may include a sealing portion 950
having an upper lip engagement portion 962 that is supported by a
supporting portion 953. The sealing portion 950 is separated from
the supporting portion 953 by a front gap in an area of a nose tip
engagement portion 952. The nose tip engagement portion 952 is
flexible and can extend downward when contacted by a patient's
nose, but will be limited in how far it can extend if it reaches
the supporting portion 953. The nose tip engagement portion 952 is
extended in length from the aperture 955 to fit nose tips of
different size, so that the nose tip of different patients may
engage the nose tip engagement portion at different locations. A
stem 954 supports the supporting portion 953 and the sealing
portion 950. The cushion 5 may be as disclosed in, for example,
International Application PCT/AU2010/00684 (WO 2010/139014 A1), the
entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
However, it should be appreciated that the swivel elbow and
connector assemblies disclosed herein may be used with other
patient interface structures or systems, e.g. cushions, such as
those disclosed in, for example, U.S. Application 61/443,623 or
U.S. 2009/0044808 A1, the entire contents of each being
incorporated herein by reference.
[0101] The stem 954 may receive the vented elbow ring 20. The
vented elbow ring 20 may be inserted into the aperture of the
cushion 5 such that the stem 954 is sealingly located in the
channel 24 between the flanges 22, 23. The sealing portion 950, the
stem 954, and the supporting portion 953 may be a flexible material
such as liquid silicone rubber material or another elastomeric
material, e.g., TPE, gel or foam. The stem 954 and the supporting
portion 953 may be formed together such as in a mold, and the
sealing portion 950 may be formed separately and then joined
together, e.g. such as by gluing. Alternatively, the stem 954 and
the supporting portion 953 may be formed together such as in a
mold, and then the sealing portion 950 may be bonded to the
supporting portion 953 and the stem 954 in the mold.
[0102] The cushion 5 may comprise a flexible gusset 965, which may
include the supporting portion 953 and the stem 954. The supporting
portion 953 and the stem 954 may be formed as a single unitary
element. The flexible gusset 965 may be constructed of a silicone
with a hardness of about 20 to 90 Shore A, preferably about 40
Shore A. The flexible gusset 965 could also be made from
polycarbonate, polypropylene, nylon, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE),
Hytrel.TM., etc.
[0103] Referring again to FIGS. 1-4, the vented elbow ring 20
comprises a plurality of vent slots 25 that extend through the
inner flange 22 across the channel 24 and through the outer flange
23. As shown in FIG. 2, the sleeve 30 includes a sleeve flange 31
provided between a flange 41 of the swivel elbow 40 and the flange
23 of the vented elbow ring 20. As shown in FIG. 1, the connection
of the sleeve 30 between the swivel elbow 40 and the vented elbow
ring 20 provides a plurality of vents 21 for the venting of
exhalation gases from the interior of the cushion 5 to the exterior
of the cushion 5 through the vent slots 25.
[0104] The shape of the vent hole in one example of the present
technology may be such that the cross section (e.g., round) is
larger on or towards the inside (entry of air) compared to the
smaller outside cross sections (e.g., diameter) where the air exits
to atmosphere. Also, the exit point or region may be angled to
diffuse air away from bed partner/bed clothes, e.g., not
perpendicular.
[0105] A smooth transition may be provided at the vent passage to
help reduce/ensure low noise providing vents along the swivel
effectively increase overall length of vents, which may allow for
laminar flow development, and result in less noise.
[0106] The first end portion of the swivel elbow 40 includes a
tapered flange 42 that engages an annular surface 32 of the sleeve
30. A cylindrical portion 33 of the sleeve 30 extends between the
sleeve flange 31 and the tapered flange 42 of the swivel elbow 40.
The sleeve 30 in the swivel elbow 40 may be permanently assembled
by the tapered flange 42 as shown in FIG. 2, although it should be
appreciated that the sleeve 30 may be under molded, co molded or
otherwise formed with the swivel elbow 40 to reduce assembly
costs.
[0107] Referring to FIG. 1, the swivel elbow and connector assembly
10 may be provided with a plurality of vents 21, for example, 20-60
vents, for example 30-50 vents, for example 38 vents, 40 vents or
42 vents. The cross sectional area of the vents may vary from, for
example, 0.5 mm.times.0.5 mm, for example, 1.0 mm.times.1.0 mm, or
0.7 mm.times.0.7 mm.
[0108] The sleeve flange 31 and the flange 41 of the swivel elbow
40 may be provided at an angle that provides for venting of the
exhalation gases from the interior of the cushion 5, 360.degree.
around the swivel elbow 40 and in direction away from the face of
the patient. The sleeve 30 provides good diffusivity, and the vent
path is contained and easily adjustable. The formation of the vents
21 by the sleeve 30 also reduces the noise of the venting from the
interior of the cushion 5.
[0109] Although the vented elbow ring 20 is shown in FIGS. 1-4 as
circular, it should be appreciated that the vented elbow ring may
be, for example, elliptical in cross section, as show in FIGS. 35
and 36.
[0110] Swivel Elbow and Connector Assembly--Vented Elbow
[0111] Referring to FIGS. 32-37, a swivel elbow and connector
assembly 120 according to another example comprises a swivel elbow
140 and a connector, or ring, 150. A cushion 130 comprises a
flexible base 133 comprising an aperture for sealingly receiving
the ring 150. The flexible base may comprise a flange, or stem, 138
that is configured to be received in a channel 154 of the ring 150
that is defined between an inner flange 152 and an outer flange
153. The cushion 130 may comprise nasal pillows 131 for sealingly
engaging the nares of a patient or user and connectors 132 for
connecting the cushion 130 to a patient interface structure
positioning and stabilizing system (e.g. headgear). The cushion 130
may be as disclosed in, for example, International Application
PCT/AU2008/001.557 (WO 2009/052560 A1), the entire contents of
which are incorporated herein by reference. It should be
appreciated that other cushions or patient interface structures may
also be used with the assembly 120, including rigid or semi-rigid
patient interface support structures (e.g. frames).
[0112] The elbow 140 includes a first end 143 configured for
connection to, for example, a delivery hose or conduit. The elbow
includes a tapered flange 142 at a second end for securing the
elbow 140 to the ring 150. Intermediate the first and second ends,
the elbow 140 includes an angled flange 141 having a plurality of
vents 145 spaced around the flange 141. The flange 141 is angled
with respect to the longitudinal axis of the elbow 140. The number
and size of the vents may be as described above. It should also be
appreciated that the vents 145 may be distributed around the angled
flange 141 evenly or randomly. It should further be appreciated
that the vents 145 may not extend around the entire circumference
of the angled flange 141 of the elbow 140, for example as shown in
FIG. 35.
[0113] A radial flange 146 may surround the angled flange 141 that
engages the outer flange 153 of the ring 150. The ring 150 is
secured between the tapered flange 142 and the radial flange 146.
The elbow 140 may further comprise a baffle 144 to separate the
venting portion 147 from an incoming flow of breathable gas from
the first end 143, although it may be circular or have other shapes
as well.
[0114] Referring to FIGS. 35-37, the ring 150 may have an
elliptical configuration (e.g. elliptical cross section). A
circular radial flange 155 may be provided on the ring 150 to form
a sealing interface with the radial flange 146 of the elbow 140. As
also shown in FIG. 35, the vents 145 may not be provided around the
entire circumference of the elbow, for example the lower portion
159 of the angled flange 141 may not include vents 145, and/or the
angled flange 141 may have a reinforced portion 157 between vents
145. As shown in FIG. 37, the baffle 144 of the elbow 140 also has
an elliptical configuration that provides venting portions 147 and
non-venting portion 149 to the elbow 140.
[0115] Double Swivel Elbow and Connector Assembly--Vented Connector
or Ring
[0116] Referring to FIGS. 5-16, a double swivel elbow and connector
assembly 60 according to a example comprises a ball and socket
connection i.e. a ball joint vented elbow ring 70, a ball joint
swivel elbow 80 swivelably connected to the ball joint vented elbow
ring 70, and a swivel cuff 90 swivelably connected to the ball
joint swivel elbow 80. The ball joint vented elbow ring 70 includes
a plurality of vent slots 71 extending around the periphery of the
elbow ring 70. As shown in FIG. 7, the slots 71 extend through an
inner flange 73 of the elbow ring 70 and through an outer flange 74
of the elbow ring 70. A cushion 5 having an aperture may be
received in a channel 75 between the inner flange 73 and the outer
flange 74. When the elbow ring 70 is positioned in the aperture of
the cushion 5, vent holes are created between the vent slots 71 in
the elbow ring 70 and the cushion 5. The cushion 5 is secured to
the double swivel elbow and connector assembly 60 when the stem 454
of the cushion is received in the channel 75 of the vented elbow
ring 70. As used herein, the term "sealingly secured" means that
the flow of breathable gas delivered to the patient interface
system, e.g. cushion, through the swivel elbow will not pass from
the interior to the exterior of the patient interface system
through the vents in the absence of exhalation by the patient or
wearer of the patient interface system.
[0117] Referring to FIG. 6, the vented elbow ring 70 includes an
annular surface 72 that may be flush or in line with an annular
surface 81 of the ball joint swivel elbow 80 when the double swivel
elbow and connector assembly 60 is in the position or configuration
shown in FIGS. 5-7, i.e., with the elbow pointing generally
downward. As shown in FIG. 10, the ball joint swivel elbow 80
includes an arcuate annular, or partially spherical, outer surface
82 that is swivelably contained by an arcuate annular, or partially
spherical, inner surface 76 of the vented elbow ring 70. The vented
elbow ring 70 and the ball joint swivel elbow 80 thus act as a ball
joint connection between the vented elbow ring 70 and the swivel
elbow 80. The inner surface 76 and the outer surface 82 have radii
of curvature that are approximately equal. The substantially equal
radii of curvature may be achieved by molding the vented elbow ring
70 and the swivel elbow 80 together, without the vented elbow ring
70 and the swivel elbow 80 chemically bonding or mechanically
bonding in the mold, e.g., by shrinkage. The inner surface 76 and
the outer surface 82 are engaged essentially over the area of
contact between the surfaces so that no or little gas flows between
the ring 70 and the elbow 80.
[0118] The swivel elbow 80 may swivel from the position shown in
FIG. 12, in which the annular surface 81 is flush with the annular
surface 72 of the vented elbow ring 70 and the longitudinal axes of
the ring 70 and the elbow 80 are co-linear, to the position shown
in FIGS. 13, 15 and 16, in which the annular surfaces 72, 81 are
not flush and the longitudinal axes are at an angle to each other.
An annular junction 85 between the arcuate annular outer surface 82
of the swivel elbow 80 and the end portion of the swivel elbow 80
limits the swiveling of the elbow 80 within the vented elbow ring
70, as shown in FIGS. 13, 15 and 16.
[0119] Referring to FIGS. 10-16, the end portion of the swivel
elbow 80 includes an annular groove 83 that receives a tapered
annular engaging ring 91 of the swivel cuff 90. A tapered flange 84
of the swivel elbow 80 engages the tapered annular engaging ring 91
of the swivel cuff 90 to retain the swivel cuff 90 to the swivel
elbow 80. As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the swivel cuff 90 includes
an angled groove 92 that allows the swivel cuff 90 to rotate from
the position shown in FIG. 12 to the position shown in FIG. 13.
[0120] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 14, the pivoting of the swivel cuff
90 allows a longitudinal axis of the double swivel elbow and
connector assembly 60 to rotate through an angle .alpha. of, for
example, 40-60.degree., for example 50.degree..
[0121] The double swivel elbow and connector assembly 60 allows for
swiveling of the connection of an air delivery tube or conduit to
the swivel cuff end portion 93 in two directions. For example, as
shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the swivel cuff 90 may swivel from the
position shown in FIG. 7 to the position shown in FIG. 8 while the
swivel elbow 80 remains in a position such that the annular surface
81 of the swivel elbow is flush with the annular surface 72 of the
vented elbow ring 70. The transition from the alignment shown in
FIG. 7 to the alignment shown in FIG. 8 is shown in FIG. 9 as a
central axis of the swivel cuff 90 rotates through the angle
.alpha. of, for example, 50.degree.. The swiveling of the cuff 90
from the position shown in FIG. 7 to the position shown in FIG. 8
allows a short air delivery tube or conduit to straighten out
thereby reducing torque forces applied to the vented elbow ring 70
and cushion 5. In other masks without this swivel, if the tube is
pulled in a direction that is perpendicular to the central axis of
the elbow, because the elbow has an L shaped configuration and no
swivel, it cannot rotate to be in line with the tube; therefore
this pulling force is directly applied to the mask and can disrupt
the seal. The ball joint (or ball and socket connection) design
allows the elbow and the swivel to re-align depending on the forces
being exerted by the tube.
[0122] The double swivel elbow and connector assembly 60 also
permits the swivel elbow 80 to swivel with respect to the vented
elbow ring 70, for example, from the position shown in FIG. 13 to
the position shown in FIG. 15. The pivoting or swiveling of the
swivel elbow 80 is limited by the annular junction 85 between the
arcuate annular outer surface 82 of the swivel elbow 80 and the end
portion of the swivel elbow 80. The swivel elbow 80 may also swivel
from the position shown in FIG. 13 to the position shown in FIG. 16
while the swivel cuff 90 may also pivot or swivel with respect to
the swivel elbow 80.
[0123] Triple Swivel Elbow and Connector Assembly--Vented Connector
or Ring
[0124] Referring to FIGS. 17-30, a triple swivel elbow and
connector assembly 60 according to another example comprises a
second swivel cuff 100 swivelably connected to the end portion of
the swivel cuff 90. The second swivel cuff 100 comprises a tapered
annular engaging ring 101 that is received in an annular groove 95
in the end portion of the swivel cuff 90. A tapered flange 94 is
provided at the end of the swivel cuff 90 to engage and retain the
annular engaging ring 101 of the second swivel cuff 100. The second
swivel cuff 100 includes an annular groove 102 that receives the
tapered flange 94 of the swivel cuff 90. The second swivel cuff 100
includes an end portion 103 that is configured to receive an air
delivery tube or conduit for receiving a flow of breathable gas
provided by a flow generator, or blower, for delivery into a
patient interface including the cushion 5.
[0125] The swivel cuff 90 and the swivel elbow 80 of the examples
shown in FIGS. 17-30 are swivelable in the same manner as described
with respect to the example disclosed in FIGS. 5-16. As shown in
FIGS. 21 and 25, the pivoting of the swivel cuff 90 allows a
longitudinal axis of the triple swivel elbow and connector assembly
60 to rotate through an angle .beta. of, for example,
40-60.degree., for example 50.degree.. Although the second swivel
cuff 100 is shown as including an annular groove 102 that receives
the tapered flange 94 of the swivel cuff 90, it should be
appreciated that the second swivel cuff 100 may be provided with an
angled groove similar to, the angled groove 92 of the first swivel
cuff 90 to permit the second swivel cuff 100 to swivel through an
angle similar to the manner in which the swivel cuff 90 swivels
with respect to the swivel elbow 80.
[0126] Swivel Elbow and Anti-Asphyxia Valve Assembly
[0127] Referring to FIGS. 38-47, a swivel elbow and anti-asphyxia
valve assembly 300 according to an example of the technology may be
provided having a diffuse vent. The assembly may also include
engagement portions, e.g. buttons or actuators, for engaging and
disengaging the assembly 300 to a patient interface, e.g. a mask.
The assembly 300 may be molded in one piece. This arrangement is
advantageous as the patient is not required to dismantle the
component (thereby preventing potential loss of components or
misalignment when reassembling), the cost of the component may be
lower, and the anti-asphyxia valve may be positioned such that it
cannot be tampered with or accidentally removed.
[0128] The assembly 300 may comprise a first elbow component, base
moulding, collar or skeleton portion 200, as shown in FIGS. 38-41.
The skeleton portion 200 may provide the underlying structure of
the assembly 300 to support the assembly in an open or patent
position. As shown in FIG. 38, the skeleton portion 200 may include
vent holes 230 adapted to permit the exit of exhausted gases from a
patient interface as per previously described examples. As shown in
FIG. 41, the skeleton portion 200 may further comprise a baffle 260
adapted to separate the incoming gases from the outgoing gases in
the assembly 300 as per previously described examples.
[0129] The skeleton portion 200 may also include a first connection
region 245 comprising engagement tabs 240 for interfacing or
connecting with a patient interface, for example. The first
connection region 245 may be substantially arcuate or define a
first arcuate region when viewed from the front. The skeleton
portion 200 may also include a second connection region 250 for
interfacing or connecting with a tube or swivel, for example. The
skeleton portion 200 may further include a stop 255 to position the
assembly 300 with respect to a mask, for example, and prevent the
assembly 300 from travelling through the connection with the mask
or insertion of the assembly 300 into the mask.
[0130] The skeleton portion 200 may be formed of a relatively
rigid, or stiff, material so that the structure may remain open to
permit the flow of gases. Stiffer materials may minimize the noise
of the air exiting the vent holes. The skeleton portion 200 may be
formed of, for example, polycarbonate, polypropylene, or nylon. A
rigid material may also assist in maintaining the assembly 300 in
an open position under certain loads, e.g. the patient lying on the
assembly. A rigid material may also be easier for the user to
connect and disconnect from the mask, tube and/or swivel.
[0131] As shown in FIG. 39, the skeleton portion 200 may further
comprise supports, arms or interconnecting regions 290 adapted to
connect the first connection region 245 with the second connection
region 250. The supports 290 may also form the boundaries of a
first aperture 210 and a second aperture 220. The supports 290 may
be flexible and resilient, i.e. the supports 290 may return to
their original shape after deformation. The first aperture 210 may
be structured and arranged to receive an anti asphyxia valve or
other valve. The second aperture 220 may be structured and arranged
to receive a flexible member or web. The second aperture 220 may
extend to an opening, gap or relief 280 at the first connection
region 245, as shown in FIG. 40.
[0132] Referring to FIG. 39, the vent holes 230 may be positioned
on a surface 235 that is generally circular or rounded to better
diffuse exiting air streams. The surface 235 may be tapered to
prevent moisture build up on the elbow--this can cause vent whistle
i.e. air exiting the vent holes to create a high pitched
whistle-like noise. The vent holes 230 may be scattered around the
surface 235 to diffuse the air flow. It should be appreciated that
the vent holes 230 may be uniformly spaced around the surface 235,
or provided as otherwise described herein.
[0133] The skeleton portion 200 may further include second supports
or stops 270 adapted to receive a button or other engagement
mechanism. The second supports 270 may be adapted to transmit a
force from an engagement feature or mechanism, such as a button, to
the skeleton portion 200. The second supports 270 may also
reinforce or provide a foundation for an engagement feature or
mechanism, such as a button, such that when the button is pressed
it does not collapse, rather it transmits a force to the skeleton
portion 200. The second supports 270 may be an alignment feature to
align the skeleton portion 200 in a tool or mold. The second
supports 270 may form a surface for a second component, for example
an over-mould, to abut or be formed against.
[0134] The skeleton portion 200 may be over-moulded or otherwise
formed with a second component (also referred to as a flexible
portion or deformable region) 335, e.g. an assembly over-mould. For
example, the skeleton portion 200 may be moulded in a first tool
and then transferred to a second tool for over-moulding with the
second component 335, or could be done all in one tool. That is,
second component 335 may be chemically, mechanically or otherwise
formed to the skeleton portion 200. The second component 335 may be
formed of a relatively flexible material, such as thermoplastic
elastomer (TPE), silicone, gel or other material.
[0135] The second component 335 may include engagement portions
320, a flexible member or web 330, a lip 315 and a valve member
310. The engagement portions 320 may be, for example, buttons,
grips, tabs or other arrangements adapted to receive a pressing
force or other motion from a patient or clinician. The engagement
portions 320 may be supported and/or reinforced by the second
supports 270. The engagement portions 320 may, when pressed,
squeeze towards one another thereby displacing the first supports
290 inwards. The first supports 290 may then deform the first
connection region 245 from a first, resting position (e.g. a
circular shape) to a second, pressed position (e.g. an oval or
elliptical shape). The gap or relief 280 may be adapted to permit
the first connection region 245 to flex. This change in shape may
move the engagement tabs 240 from a first, engaged position, to a
second, disengaged position. The gap or relief 280 may form a
second arcuate region, such that when combined with the first
arcuate region of the first connection region 245, the two
components form a circle and hence a cylinder.
[0136] The flexible member or web 330 may be connected to the
engagement portions 320 and also seal the second aperture 220. The
flexible member 330 may be in the form of a membrane or other
readily deformable shape, as when engagement portions 320 are
pressed, the flexible member 330 may buckle or bend.
[0137] The lip 315 may be formed about and positioned around the
perimeter of the first aperture 210. The lip 315 may be adapted to
prevent objects from entering the first aperture 210. The lip 315
may also serve as a blank off for molding elbow assembly 300.
[0138] The valve member 310, as shown in FIG. 46, may be positioned
within the body of the elbow assembly 300, i.e. between the first
supports 290. The valve member 310 may act as an anti-asphyxia
valve, i.e. when air is delivered from the second connection region
250 to the first connection region 245, the valve member 310 may
move into a first position (not shown) to occlude the first
aperture 210; and when there is no air being delivered from the
second connection region 250 to the first connection region 245,
the valve member 310 may move to a second position (FIG. 46) that
does not occlude the first aperture 210, thereby permitting the
patient to receive air from atmosphere through the first aperture
210. The valve member 310 may be a flap. The valve member 310 may
be integrally formed with the second component 335, e.g. through a
living hinge attached to the lip. It should be appreciated that the
valve member 310 may be formed separately from the second component
335 and attached to the second component 335. The valve member 310
may be larger than the first aperture 210, so as to occlude the
first aperture 210 when air is delivered from the second connection
region 250 to the first connection region 245.
[0139] The valve member 310, the lip 315, the engagement portions
320, and the flexible member 330 may be formed from the same
material in a single piece. Alternatively, one or more of these
components may be formed separately and/or from an alternative
material.
[0140] In a further example of the present technology, e.g., shown
in FIGS. 68A-70 an elbow 80 may be formed or constructed in a
multi-step process, e.g., three step process, to achieve a single
component with multiple functions. The elbow 800 may comprise a
skeleton or frame 805, e.g., constructed of rigid or semi-rigid
material, and adapted to communicate air flow from an air delivery
tube to a mask. The skeleton 805 may be first formed or molded in a
tool. Skeleton 805 may be constructed of a polymer such as
polypropylene, polycarbonate, and nylon.
[0141] The elbow 800 may further comprise an AAV (anti-asphyxia
valve) 810 having a flap 812 adapted to provide the patient with
access to atmospheric gas should a flow generator fail to deliver
air to the mask. The AAV 810 may be formed or molded within the
skeleton 805 or formed or molded and then subsequently assembled to
the skeleton 805. For example, as shown in FIGS. 68A-68D, the AAV
810 may be molded and then pulled through an opening 815 in the
skeleton. A pull tab 820 of the AAV may enable the AAV 810 to be
pulled through the opening 815 so as to position, retain and/or
seal the AAV relative to the skeleton. The pull tab 820 may be a
sacrificial component that once utilized (e.g., pulled through the
opening) it may be cut off (such that an outer surface 810.2 of an
outer flange 810.1 is substantially flush with the elbow surface)
as shown in FIG. 69 or otherwise removed (e.g., once an inner
flange 825 is pulled and anchored against the inner surface of the
skeleton, further applied force will tear the pull tab away from
the AAV, possibly assisted by a perforation(s) between pull tab and
outer flange 810.1). Alternatively the AAV 810 may be molded in the
opening 815 and extending through the skeleton 805 without the need
for pull tab 820. The AAV 810 may include an inner flange 825 to
seal the AAV 810 against the inner wall 830 of the skeleton
805.
[0142] The elbow 800 may comprise a flexible component 832 (FIG.
69A) adapted to secure the AAV 810 in position and/or form one or
more release buttons 835 of the elbow 800. For example, the
flexible component 832 may be a silicone or TPE which is molded
over the skeleton 805 to form the outer portions of the release
buttons 835, thereby allowing the release buttons 835 to flex; and
may be molded over the AAV 810 at the opening 830 to seal and hold
the AAV 810 in position relative to the skeleton 805.
[0143] The arrangement may have one or more of the following
advantages: [0144] The AAV is sealed in position and cannot be
removed from the elbow thereby preventing the patient from
accidentally disassembling the AAV and thus rendering the device
unsafe. [0145] The flexible component can be molded in a single
shot--if there was no flexible component over the AAV then the
flexible component may be molded on either side of the elbow at
each button. Since it is molded in a single shot, it may be more
efficient and less expensive to tool [0146] The elbow may be more
visually appealing.
[0147] Swivel Elbow and Connector Assembly Including Patient
Interface Cushion
[0148] Referring to FIG. 48, a patient interface system 400 for
delivering a flow of breathable gas to a patient may include a
swivel elbow 410, a swivel or ring or connector 420, and a cushion
430 for sealingly engaging the patient's airways. Although the
cushion 430 as shown includes nasal pillows or prongs or puffs, it
should be appreciated that other cushions may be provided, for
example a nasal cushion or a full face cushion. The swivel 420 may
be removably attachable to the cushion 430 by a bayonet type
connection 440 that includes detents 421 on the swivel 420 to
engage with tabs 431 on the cushion 430. Vents 411 are provided
between the elbow 410 and the swivel 420. The vents 411 may include
slots provided on the elbow surface to create venting gaps between
the elbow 410 and the swivel 420. It should be appreciated that the
slots may be provided in the swivel instead of the elbow, or that
slots may be provided in both the elbow and the swivel.
[0149] Referring to FIGS. 49-51, according to another example a
patient interface system 450 may include a swivel elbow 460, a
swivel or ring or connector 470, and a cushion 490. The swivel 470
may be connected to a ring 480 that is attached to the cushion 490
at 481. The ring 480 may be permanently or removably attached to
the cushion 490. For example, the cushion 490 may be overmoulded to
the ring 480 or the cushion 490 and the ring 480 may be attached by
adhesive. As another example, the cushion 490 and the ring 480 may
be press fit together.
[0150] The elbow 460 may be removably attached to the swivel 470 or
the elbow may be permanently attached to the swivel 470. The elbow
460 may have flexible buttons 462 provided between grooves 463
formed in the elbow 460. The buttons 462 may be pressed or flexed
to connect and disconnect the elbow 460 from the swivel 470.
[0151] Vents 461 are provided between the elbow 460 and the swivel
470. The vents 461 may include slots provided on the elbow surface
to create venting gaps between the elbow 460 and the swivel 470. It
should be appreciated that the slots may be provided in the swivel
instead of the elbow, or that slots may be provided in both the
elbow and the swivel.
[0152] Referring to FIG. 52, a patient interface system 500
according to another example may include a swivel elbow 510, a
swivel or ring or connector 520, and a cushion 530. The cushion 530
may be permanently or removably connected to the swivel 520 at 521.
The elbow 510 may be press fit to the swivel 520 and be releasable
by pressing buttons 512 provided between grooves 513 as per grooves
463. Grooves 463 are made air tight by either being thinned regions
of material or an over-molded second material (e.g., TPE,
silicone). The elbow 510 may further include slots 511 to vent
exhaled gases and a baffle 514 to reduce noise and increase exhaust
gas washout.
[0153] Referring to FIGS. 53 and 54, an elbow 550 according to an
example of the technology may include slots 551 to vent exhaled
gases and a baffle 554 to reduce noise and increase exhaust gas
washout. An aperture 552 may be provided in the elbow 550 to permit
the patient to breathe in the event that the flow of breathable gas
is interrupted or stopped. An AAV flap 555 is provided to close the
aperture 552 when a flow of breathable gas is in the elbow 550
(i.e. the flow of breathable gas biases the flap 555 into a closed
position to cover the aperture 552). As shown in FIGS. 53 and 54,
the AAV flap 555 is in the open position. The elbow 550 may be
moulded from, for example, a rigid material to improve vent flow
noise and to prevent the slots 551 from occluding. The AAV flap 555
may be formed of, for example, a flexible material to enable
movement of the AAV flap 555 from the open to the closed position
under the influence of the flow of breathable gas.
[0154] Elbow and Tube Connector Assembly
[0155] Referring to FIGS. 55-57, an elbow and tube connector
assembly 560 may include an elbow 570 and a tube connector 580 that
clips into the inner surface of the elbow 570. Clipping the tube
connector 580 into the elbow 570 reduces the overall visual bulk of
the assembly 560 and may also create a tube-specific fitting such
that only tubes 590 provided by a certain manufacturer or provided
can be used with the elbow 570.
[0156] The elbow 570 may include a lip or flexible element 571
adapted to engage with an outer surface, e.g. a groove, 581 of the
tube connector 580 to ensure a more robust seal. The tube connector
580 may also include a series of ridges 582 adapted to engage with
the inner surface of the elbow 570, thereby causing a seal, while
avoiding increased friction between the tube connector 580 and the
elbow 570 to permit rotation of the components relative to one
another.
[0157] Straight Swivel for Elbow and Tube Connection
[0158] Referring to FIGS. 58-60, a tube and elbow connector
assembly may 600 include a swivel elbow 610, a tube connector 630
and a swivel or connector or ring 620. The assembly 600 may be used
to connect the elbow 610, such as the elbow disclosed in, for
example, U.S. 2010/0307502 A1, the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference, to a short retractable tube,
having a length of, for example 150 mm, such as disclosed in, for
example, U.S. 2009/0078259 A1, the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference. The assembly 600 may reduce
rotational/torque forces between the tube and the elbow. For
example, as disclosed in U.S. 2010/0000534 A1, a patient interface
system may include a "pillow cushion" that is adhesively applied to
the patient's face. As the patient interface system has no
headgear, it therefore has little to no resistance to rotational
forces being applied to the pillow cushion. The patient interface
system may include a decoupling gusset, a ring elbow and a short,
retractable tube attached to the elbow. A longer tube, e.g. a 2 m
tube, may be connected to the short, retractable tube by a swivel.
As the short, retractable tube is stretched, it may rotate almost a
full revolution. This in turn rotates the elbow and distorts the
pillow cushion and may pull the prongs or pillows out of the nose.
In the patient interface of U.S. 2010/0000534 A1, the short,
retractable tube assembly is designed to be `semi-permanent` and
have minimal leak through the tube-elbow interface. As such, there
is no ability to rotate at the short, retractable tube and elbow
interaction site and the elbow acts as a solid fixture and
increases the torque onto the cushion.
[0159] By altering the location of the swivel in the patient
interface system, for example by placing the swivel between the
short, retractable tube and the elbow, all the rotational forces of
both the longer tube and the short, retractable tube would be
rotationally decoupled from the cushion.
[0160] By copying the geometry of the external surface of the
elbow, and the internal surface of the short tube cuff and
offsetting each by, for example, 0.2 mm, preferably 0.1 mm, there
would be clearance between both parts. As the tube is stretched and
starts to rotate, the surface with the least resistance will
swivel. The swivel may either `fuse` (i.e. not rotate) on one side,
and rotate 100% on the other, or take up 50% of the rotation on
either side so that the cushion would only experience a tensile
force.
[0161] Referring to FIGS. 61-65, a tube and elbow connector
assembly 650 according to another example includes an elbow 660
connectable to a tube or tube cuff 690 by a swivel component 670,
680 made by, for example, overmoulding a first swivel component 680
over a second swivel component 670 in a mould assembly to form a
freely rotating swivel in a smaller footprint, i.e. minimising the
extension of the elbow length. The internal geometry of the cuff
690 and the external geometry of the elbow 660 were replicated to
ensure a tight fit with no leak, yet the shrinkage of the in-mould
assembly would allow a smooth rotation. The swivel components 670,
680 form a two part swivel moulded as one.
[0162] Referring to FIGS. 66 and 67, a tube cuff-to-tube cuff
connector 700 assembly may also provide a swivel configured to join
cuffs 710, 730 of short tubes with no multiplication of the torque
forces. A cuff connector 720 may be provided between two short
tubes of, for example, 150 mm in length, rather than one 300 mm
tube with 100% clockwise torque force. The cuff connector 720
connects the two short tubes, and each the two short tubes may be
wound in different directions, (i.e. 50% clockwise, 50%
anti-clockwise) to cancel each other's torque out.
[0163] While the technology has been described in connection with
what are presently considered to be the most practical and
preferred examples, it is to be understood that the technology is
not to be limited to the disclosed examples, but on the contrary,
is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent
arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the
technology. Also, the various examples described above may be
implemented in conjunction with other examples, e.g., aspects of
one example may be combined with aspects of another example to
realize yet other examples. Further, each independent feature or
component of any given assembly may constitute an additional
example. In addition, while the technology has particular
application to patients who suffer from OSA, it is to be
appreciated that patients who suffer from other illnesses (e.g.,
congestive heart failure, diabetes, morbid obesity, stroke,
bariatric surgery, etc.) can derive benefit from the above
teachings. Moreover, the above teachings have applicability with
patients and non-patients alike in non-medical applications.
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